Your front door is one of the first things people notice about your house, so choosing the right one is a big decision. And as well as looking the part, you’ll want to pick a door that is strong, secure and capable of keeping the elements at bay.
Once you’ve bought your door, installing it can seem daunting too. But it doesn’t have to be stressful; keep reading for our helpful guide on choosing and installing a new front door.
Types of door materials
The first step when choosing a new front door is deciding on the material. Take a look at the options below:
Wooden doors
- The most common type of front door
- Many different types of wood to choose from, including oak, cherry, walnut and pine
- Can easily be painted or stained to suit your taste
- Wooden doors are heavy, sturdy and durable
- They may need to be resealed and touched up every couple of years
Metal doors
- Usually made from steel or aluminium
- Metal doors look modern and contemporary
- They are strong, durable and resistant to weather warping
- Metal doors are provide an extra layer of security
- This option is more expensive than a wooden door
Fibreglass doors
- Can be made with a grain texture to mimic the look of a wooden door
- Highly weather resistant and will not warp
- Provides better insulation than wooden doors
- Fibreglass doors are pre-hung, making them easy to install
- This type of door can be expensive
Glass doors
- Can be a stylish option for both modern and traditional properties
- A great way to let natural light into your home
- Glass can be frosted for privacy
- Laminated glass is strong and resistant to break-ins
- Glass doors are not the best insulators
Types of door styles
Now you’re clued up on door material options, let’s look into types of door styles:
Storm doors
- Storm doors are installed in front of a standard entry door
- They protect the house (and the front door) from bad weather
- This type of door usually features glass panels so that you can see outside
Patio doors
- These are glass doors that provide entry to a garden or outdoor space
- Also known as sliding doors, they slide along a track to open
- An effective way to bring more natural light into your home
Dutch doors
- This type of door is divided horizontally, allowing you to open the top part while the bottom remains closed
- Ideal for providing ventilation, as well as keeping children or pets inside or outside
- Traditionally used in cottages or farmhouses
How to install a new front door
Once your door has arrived, it’s time to install it. Follow our step-by-step guide below to install your door safely and securely:
- Remove the old door by tapping the hinge pins loose with a hammer, then swing the door open and lift it off. Be careful as the door will be heavy.
- Check that the new door fits. Ideally, there should be a 2mm gap around the top and sides of the door. Using a flat penny is a good way to check this measurement.
- Measure the hinge positions by holding the door up in the frame. Use a pencil to mark where the hinges will go on the door.
- Fit the hinges to the door using a drill and a screwdriver.
- Hang the door by positioning it at 90° to the frame. Fix one screw into the bottom of each hinge first, then check that the door opens and closes correctly.
- Fix the rest of the screws in place. You can tighten or loosen them if required.
- Last but not least, add your door handle or doorknob.
New front door cost
Depending on your needs, a new front door could cost anywhere between £500 for a standard wooden door to £2,500 for a custom-made door. The cost of buying a new front door has many variables, including the type of material used.
Standard door measurements
In the UK, the most common front door measurement is 1,981mm x 838mm x 44mm. However, remember that this measurement is only a guide and you should always take your own measurements before buying a new door.
Hopefully you’re now feeling more informed and confident about choosing a new front door. Need some help with installation? Find a Tasker near you today.
